Pakistan: Punjab Police Arrest Muslim Man for Vandalizing Church; Christian Leaders Praise Swift Police Action

The Punjab Police have arrested Allah Rakha, a Muslim man, for vandalizing Feroz Din Taak Memorial Church, a Protestant church, on January 5. The incident occurred in Ghaneke Village, Kasur District, about 50 kilometers south of Lahore, the capital of Punjab.

The accused confessed to attacking the church. Police have charged him under Sections 295 of the Pakistan Penal Code (defiling a place of worship with intent to insult religion) and 295A (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings).

“We arrested Allah Rakha six hours after the First Information Report (FIR) was filed and obtained a 14-day remand for further interrogation,” said Muhammad Isa Khan, Divisional Police Officer. “The attacker has confessed to desecrating church property and religious articles. Upon completion of the investigation, under Sections 295 and 295A, he could face up to 10 years in prison, a fine, or both.”

According to police, Allah Rakha is a drug addict and a rickshaw driver. The attack reportedly stemmed from a personal quarrel with local Christian youth, which he sought to settle by vandalizing the church. He broke windows to gain entry and damaged church property, including religious books and articles.

Tariq Masih, Pastor In-Charge of Feroz Din Taak Memorial Church, filed the complaint at Kot Radha Kishan Police Station, leading to Case No. 22.26 under blasphemy-related sections. The Pastor described the aftermath:

“We open the church in the morning for prayer, and on January 5, I was shocked to see broken windows, torn Holy Bibles scattered on the floor, damaged musical instruments and sound systems, and destroyed altar decorations, including the cross and flowers.”

Fr. Qaisar Feroz OFM Cap, Secretary of the Catholic Commission for Social Communications, condemned the attack and praised the police for their swift action.

Speaking to Radio Veritas Asia, he said, “I appreciate the police for locating and arresting the attacker. In recent weeks, they have also ensured the security of churches during Christmas and New Year services. Their positive response shows that the government is serious about protecting religious minorities in Pakistan.”

Ejaz Alam Augustine, a Christian member of the Provincial Assembly of Punjab, visited the vandalized church, met with police and the Christian community, and assured them of justice:

“I thank the police for their quick response and efforts to arrest the culprit on the same day. Religious places must be protected, and harmony among people of all faiths must be maintained.”

Fr. Lazar Aslam OFM Cap added: “The targeted assault on the church is deeply painful. The violent desecration of Holy Bibles, sacred property, and liturgical materials has traumatized the local community. An attack on a house of worship is an assault on human dignity and the right to worship in peace. We commend the Punjab Police for their prompt intervention and remain committed to peace, justice, and standing united against intolerance.”

Falbous Christopher, a Christian politician and Provincial Assembly member, also condemned the attack: “Protecting religious minorities is a top priority for our government. I commend the police for their zero-tolerance approach and swift action in arresting the culprit responsible for desecrating the church.”